With a 180mph top speed and 0-60mph time of just 4.2 seconds, the convertible version of Jaguar’s all-powerful (550PS) XKR-S will see the light at the 18-27 November Los Angeles Auto Show.

The Indian-owned, UK-based company is on something of a roll at the moment (strong sales, a new emissions-busting diesel four-cylinder and the delicious C-X16 concept) and the latest car is the fastest and most powerful convertible Jaguar ever built.

Not cheap (pricing is estimated to “start at £103,000” in the UK) the XKR-S Convertible is in the same market as the Porsche 911 Turbo convertible and the much more expensive Ferrari California. Like its coupé sibling, extensive use is made of aluminium, and the suspension has been similarly uprated, while the Jaguar High Performance Braking System (as standard, with 380mm front, 376mm rear discs) provides suitable stopping power.

Externally, new sills and a front bumper complete with a splitter and a wider, lower air-intake are balanced by a unique rear wing with carbonfibre insert and apron. Roof down, the Performance Active exhaust system will, Jaguar promises, “deliver an authentic, race-car inspired soundtrack”.

The XKR-S Convertible is available in a range of six colours, including Polaris White and British Racing Green. As standard, the fabric roof is black, with special-order alternatives available. Inside, the high-spec, sporting interior features 16-way adjustable Performance seats trimmed in ‘carbon’ leather.

UK deliveries will start in early 2012.

Text: Steve Wakefield
Photos: Jaguar